Gran Canaria, the third-largest island in the Canary Islands archipelago, is a popular destination for tourists and a coveted location for holiday makers and international residents alike. Known for its diverse and vibrant landscapes, ranging from golden beaches to lush forests and rugged mountains, Gran Canaria offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The island enjoys a subtropical climate and has long been a popular destination for winter sunseekers, with mild winters and warm summers, making it an ideal location for year-round living.
In this guide, we will explore what makes this unique island such an attractive place to live, work and visit on holiday.
Main Locations and Their Unique Features
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas, the capital city, is the largest urban area on the island and offers a vibrant mix of cultural heritage and modern living. The city is famous for its historic district, Vegueta, where cobbled streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, museums, and the iconic Santa Ana Cathedral.
Las Palmas also boasts beautiful beaches, such as Las Canteras, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The city’s diverse culinary scene, bustling markets, and extensive shopping options make it a prime location for those seeking more of an urban lifestyle.
Maspalomas
Maspalomas is renowned for its stunning sand dunes, which create a picturesque desert-like landscape. This area is popular with tourists and residents alike, offering luxury resorts, golf courses, and a lively nightlife. The lighthouse of Maspalomas, a historical landmark, marks the beginning of a long promenade filled with restaurants and shops. For nature lovers, the nearby nature reserve is home to a variety of bird species and provides a peaceful escape from the bustling beach areas.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico, located on the southwest coast, is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The area features two sheltered beaches and a marina where you can enjoy activities like sailing, diving, and deep-sea fishing. The sunny climate and calm waters make it a perfect spot for families. Puerto Rico also offers a range of dining options, shopping centres, and entertainment venues, ensuring there’s always something to do.
San Agustín
San Agustín is a quieter, more relaxed area compared to the bustling resorts of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés. It is an excellent location for those seeking tranquillity and beautiful sea views. The area is known for its wellness centres, offering a variety of spa treatments and health retreats. San Agustín’s beaches are less crowded, making them ideal for peaceful walks and relaxation.
Agaete
Agaete, located on the northwest coast, is known for its dramatic cliffs, natural pools, and the beautiful Tamadaba Natural Park. The town has a charming, authentic Canarian feel with white-washed houses and narrow streets. Agaete is also famous for its annual fiesta, La Rama, which attracts visitors from all over the island. The nearby Puerto de las Nieves offers fresh seafood restaurants and ferry connections to Tenerife.
First-Class Amenities
Gran Canaria is well-equipped with modern amenities to cater to both residents and visitors. The island has a comprehensive healthcare system, with numerous public and private hospitals and clinics offering high-quality medical care. Shopping is a delight in Gran Canaria, with a mix of local markets, shopping centres, and international brand stores. The island also boasts an extensive public transport network, making it easy to travel between different towns and attractions.
For sports enthusiasts, Gran Canaria offers a wide range of facilities, including golf courses, tennis courts, and fitness centres. The island’s varied landscapes provide ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the marina facilities in places like Puerto Rico and Las Palmas cater to boating and yachting enthusiasts.
Family-Friendly Island Life
Gran Canaria is a fantastic place for families, with a wealth of schools, activities, and family-friendly amenities. The island has numerous international schools, offering curricula in English, German, and other languages, catering to the expatriate community. Public schools on the island are also well-regarded, providing quality education in a safe and nurturing environment.
When it comes to activities, Gran Canaria offers plenty for children of all ages. The island is home to several theme parks, such as Aqualand and Palmitos Park, where families can enjoy a fun day out. The beaches, with their calm waters and soft sand, are perfect for young children. For more adventurous families, hiking trails in places like the Tamadaba Natural Park offer a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Sports facilities and clubs are abundant, providing opportunities for children to participate in football, tennis, swimming, and other activities. Additionally, cultural activities, such as music, dance, and art classes, are readily available, ensuring a well-rounded development for young residents.
Varied Property Proposition
Gran Canaria offers a diverse range of properties to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the most common types of properties available on the island:
Apartments
Apartments are widely available across Gran Canaria, particularly in urban areas like Las Palmas and popular tourist destinations like Maspalomas and Puerto Rico. They range from compact studios to spacious multi-bedroom units, often within residential complexes that offer shared amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and gardens.
Villas
For those seeking more space and privacy, villas are an excellent option. These properties are typically found in suburban areas and luxury resorts. Villas often come with private gardens, swimming pools, and stunning views of the ocean or mountains. They are ideal for families and those looking for a luxurious lifestyle.
Townhouses
Townhouses offer a middle ground between apartments and villas. They are usually multi-story properties with shared walls but private entrances. Townhouses are common in both urban and suburban settings, providing a balance of space, privacy, and community living.
Fincas
For a more traditional Canarian living experience, fincas are a popular choice. These rural properties are often set in large plots of land and come with features like orchards, gardens, and even vineyards. Fincas are perfect for those looking to embrace a more sustainable and nature-oriented lifestyle.
Luxury Properties
Gran Canaria also boasts a selection of high-end luxury properties, including penthouses, beachfront estates, and exclusive villas in gated communities. These properties offer top-of-the-line amenities, cutting-edge design, and unparalleled views, catering to the most discerning buyers.
Whatever type of property you are seeking, Gran Canaria is a diverse and vibrant island offering something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a bustling urban lifestyle, a peaceful retreat, or a luxurious beachfront property, the island has it all. With its excellent amenities, family-friendly environment, and wide range of property types, Gran Canaria is an ideal destination, whether you are seeking a holiday home or permanent residence. Explore the island’s unique locations, enjoy the wealth of activities and services available, and find your perfect home in this stunning Canary Island paradise.
See our real estate agents in Gran Canaria page for contact information.
